Đề ôn thi Đề thi vào lớp 10 Trường THPT Chuyên KHXH môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề KHXH-144

When we think about digestion, we often focus on the stomach. However, the process actually begins the moment food enters our mouth. The hero of this first stage is saliva, a clear liquid produced by (35) __________ in our mouth. A nutritionist once remarked that if our bodies didn't produce saliva, eating (36) __________ much more difficult and less enjoyable.

The most obvious job of saliva is to moisten food. As soon as you start chewing, your food is mixed with it. This softening action is critical. (37) __________, the food is easier to chew and form into a small, round mass called a bolus, which helps us (38) __________ it safely.

But saliva does more than just wet our food. It also begins chemical digestion thanks to special proteins called enzymes. One important enzyme, amylase, helps to break (39) __________ complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars. A doctor once said that this initial step (40) __________ very important for the whole digestive process. This is (41) __________ first chemical reaction that our food undergoes.

Furthermore, saliva is essential for taste. For you to experience different flavors, molecules from food must be dissolved in a liquid. Saliva acts as this liquid, allowing the food molecules to connect with your taste buds. Without it, even the most delicious meal would taste bland and uninteresting.

In conclusion, saliva is a surprisingly complex and vital fluid. It lubricates food, starts the chemical breakdown of starches, and enables our sense of taste. It’s clear that when it comes to digestion, saliva truly (42) __________.

If you scroll through the playlists of many young Vietnamese today, you will find more than just the chart-topping hits of V-Pop. A different sound is taking over their headphones: indie music. Short for 'independent,' indie music is created by artists who are not signed to major record labels. This freedom allows them to create music that is deeply personal and often breaks from the traditional formulas of commercial pop. In Vietnam, this movement has grown rapidly, capturing the hearts and minds of a new generation of listeners looking for something more.

So, what is the secret behind this attraction? The primary reason is authenticity. Unlike mainstream pop, which can sometimes feel manufactured, indie music offers a rawer, more honest perspective. Artists like Vũ., Ngọt, or the band Chillies write lyrics that reflect the everyday realities of young people – the joys of a new romance, the sadness of a breakup, or the confusion of growing up. This lyrical honesty creates a strong connection, making listeners feel understood. The music feels authentic because it speaks directly to their own experiences, creating a bond that polished, market-driven pop songs often cannot match.

Technology has been the most significant catalyst for this musical shift. In the past, artists needed the backing of a large entertainment company to produce and distribute their music. Now, platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and SoundCloud have democratized the industry. Independent artists can record a song in their bedroom, upload it, and share it directly with the world. This direct-to-fan approach allows them to build a loyal community around their music without needing a massive marketing budget. It also means they retain creative control, ensuring their artistic vision remains pure.

This new path to success redefines what it means to be a successful musician in Vietnam. For many indie artists, success is not measured solely by album sales or television appearances. Instead, it is measured by the strength of their connection with their audience. A sold-out show in a small, intimate venue or a heartfelt comment on a YouTube video can be more meaningful than a number one hit. This focus on community and personal expression is a refreshing alternative to the high-pressure world of commercial entertainment.

In conclusion, the rise of indie music in Vietnam is not a temporary trend. It is a powerful cultural shift driven by a desire for authenticity, enabled by modern technology, and sustained by a strong sense of community. As young Vietnamese continue to seek out music that reflects their true selves, the unique and personal voices of indie artists will undoubtedly play an even more important role in the country's musical landscape.